Avalanche forecast

East Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

For Monday, avalanche conditions are generally safe.  You may be able to trigger small avalanches in very steep terrain where surface snow is poorly bonded to older layers or where the wind may have formed small drifts in the last week. Expect a dusting of snow by the end of Monday with westerly wind.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    With 4"-6" of low-density snow sitting on a firm crust, you may be able to trigger small, loose avalanches are in very steep terrain (>40 degrees). While these avalanches will be small and easy to predict, they could run far and fast. Steer around likely trigger points like steep rollovers and convex terrain features. Use caution near terrain traps where an avalanche could push you into rocks, trees, or gulleys. Even small avalanches could be dangerous in those areas. 

Avalanche Discussion

Intermittent wind over the past few days may have formed very small and isolated slabs on leeward sides of the highest ridges. On Saturday, observers reported widespread surface hoar growing to 5mm and very cold air temperatures. They found about 2 inches of recent snow east of Washington Pass and around 6" west of the pass and at upper elevations. This is resting on a thick freezing rain crust. This combination could make for a slippery weak layer if more snow is piled on top. Stormy weather could deliver enough snow to test the weak surfaces by the second half of the week. 

The snowpack remains shallow at lower elevations, and early season hazards such as downed trees, rocks and creeks are plentiful. At lower elevations and steep slopes, dust on crust conditions may make for icy and/or tricky travel.

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources. Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.

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